Leisure and Aging
A "Senior" Commissioner's Viewpoint
I'm suggesting, therefore, that park pros and boards, if they haven't already done so, widen their planning perspectives. They need to keep us old folks in mind when planning staff, program, and facilities, when formulating annual budgets. We're not looking for agencies to short-change their traditional publics. All we ask is to be included in the planning mix. Remember, we pay taxes. We vote. Boy, do we vote! I congratulate the vision of those agencies that have recognized the graying America and are already planning for it. To those that haven't, the age wave has yet to peak, but it's building — and fast. Working together, we can build a solid future — one in which everyone, old and young, can take time for fun and enjoy the rich blessings that flow from our Illinois parks and recreation programs. _______________________________________________
The IAPD found that 23% of park commissioners are over 60 years of age! If retirement is to withdraw oneself from business, active service, or public life because of age, this then means that one out of five park commissioners has withdrawn from workday life but has more time to devote to their park service.
One would be surprised at how often you can help out with the problems and activities of your park district. Consider committee work for the IAPD. You now have more time, and the Association can use your help. Call or write the IAPD office now and pitch in to help the park and recreation field throughout the state. You will enjoy working with IAPD — the staff is friendly and very supportive. Now that you have read this article, call the park district office and explain what you would like to do. Ask to have the information noted to the staff. You might also offer to stand by to be on call, if the staff needs a fill in, if someone fails to show, etc. Be the one they can call on for help. Offer to help out at your park district or the IAPD. DO IT NOW! Illinois Parks & Recreation* November/December 1994 * 31 |
Sam S. Manivong, Illinois Periodicals Online Coordinator |